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Priya Ayyar's straightforward narration provides a positive and loving portrayal of a contemporary Pakistani-American family in this story inspired by LITTLE WOMEN. Seventh grader Jameela, editor of her school newspaper, develops a friendship with Ali, the visiting British-Pakistani nephew of a family friend. At the same time, her younger sister is diagnosed with cancer, and her close-knit family pulls together to support her. Ayyar is engaging and relatable as Jameela. Although her British accent for Ali is not totally convincing, she gives Jameela's three sisters distinct voices reflecting their personalities: mature Maryam; timid, compliant Bisma; and spoiled Aleeza. Listeners who know LITTLE WOMEN will recognize their counterparts, but it's not necessary to enjoy this audiobook. S.C. © AudioFile 2019, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPTEMBER 2019]